The rides in the theme parks are
always eagerly looked forward to. However, the theme parks are at a point
that if the new rides pull in more visitors they will be forced to close
due to overcrowding.

Beginning this summer, Disney will offer Toy Story Land at the Hollywood
Studios Park and next year, Star Wars, Galaxy Enge. Tomorrow Land will
sport characters from “The Incredibles”.

Legoland is showing off a new virtual reality roller coaster for the six
year and older group while Universal adds a simulator ride based on the
movie “Fast and Furious”.

Sea World in Orlando is drifting away from animal shows and putting tons
of effort into more rides. They are showing a new raft ride and claim in
to be the tallest in the world. For this summer only, Sea World Orlando is
offering two free beers for adults at Mama’s Pretzel Kitchen.

Aquatica shows off the new Ray Rush raft ride that is propelled by water
jets and promises to be a thriller.

And Adventure Island near Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay has a new free fall
water slide. One of the slides is for the brave at heart and the other for
people like me with butterflies in their tummies.

All of the new attractions are going to bring into Central FLorida more
visitors. A record of 72 million visitors were reported last year and
expectation s are far greater for the ensuing year.

My comment? Where is the light rail and other infrastructures when we need
it? Visitors are wonderful but they have to move on our roads, dine in our
restaurants and sleep somewhere. We are running short on roadways......And
then, what about water problems that are popping up in new articles and
commissioner itineraries?

Posted May 23,
2018

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Hungry? Try McDonald’s Catering

McDonald’s is catering breakfast
only in all 195 Central Florida locations. Place your order through the
app Uber Eat or McDelivery. If you use the Uber Eat app there is a $3.50
cost for your order. You can also call in orders and do your own pick up.

McDonald’s catering is only a test for now and available only in Central
Florida. This service is good for 6, 12, or 18 people.

Posted May 20,
2018

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Chapter 2 of Possible Water War

As I have noted in another blog, The
Peace River Manasota Regional Water Authority has requested that the
Southwest Water Management District withdraw 258 million gallons of water
per day during peak flow times front the Peace River over the next 50
years. Currently they have permission to withdraw 120 gallons until 2037.

The Winter Haven Commissioners have opted to hire Attorney de la Parte to
represent the city in order to halt the petition from the Peace River
Manasota Regional Authority at a price of $15,000. If legal fees go over
the limits the council will reconsider for further approval.

And again I quote from The Ledger,”. The worry is that if Peace River
Manasota Regional Water Authority’s request is approved, it could halt the
Polk Regional Water Cooperative’s goal of building a reservoir at Peace
River. It could mean losing the ability to withdraw 28 million gallons of
water for county residents since 23 percent of the river’s water shed is
in Polk County.”

The city of Lakeland is also represented in the petition however, they
have their own attorney.

The Polk Cooperative is set to ratify the petition against the 50 year
permit on May 15 while Swiftmud is set to consider the 50 year request on
May 22, 2018.

Posted May 13,
2018

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Might
There Be a Water War?

Because water is such an important
topic in Polk County, I am going to quote directly from the Ledger.......

“A water war could be brewing between Polk County and neighbors in
Manatee, Charlotte, DeSoto and Sarasota counties. These southern counties
have filed a 50 year permit that more than doubles the amount of water it
withdraws.

Upstream officials with Polk County’s regional water cooperative are
concerned. They may have a plan in the future to increase aquifer recharge
in the Peace Creek Basin the the Winter Haven area to receive groundwater
credits to allow increased withdrawals from existing wells. This project
would involve diverting 5 to 10 million gallons of water a day into
mini-reservoirs.

The fear is that if downstream users secure 50 years worth of rights,
there won’t be water available when Polk County comes calling. The extent
of that water decrease is yet to be determined.

There is frustration with Southwest Florida Water Management District
known as Swiftmud. Polk County created its regional water cooperative
at the request of the state water agency, which indicated that cities
alone could no longer expect to secure their own water rights.

The Polk Regional Water Cooperative which represents 15 cities including
Lakeland and Polk County plans to ask its lawyer to file its own petition
on Wednesday next to allow more time to study the impacts. They want to
reaffirm that the district takes into account the stream impacts.

This new water plan has been in the works for four years. Swiftmud
received the southern counties permit application October, 2017. They plan
to expand a water treatment facility in DeSoto county and build an
additional reservoir that would store 6 billion gallons of water. There is
a prediction that the southern counties are going to need to put another
100 million gallons per day in the public water supply capacity. They are
not certain that their plan would adversely impact Polk.

Swiftmud approved the permit by the southern counties April 24, 2018.It is
scheduled to come before the board for a vote on May 22, 2018.

Polk county claims they were not aware of the issue until it came up in a
Swiftmud meeting in late February.

Delgado says though the filing may have been working its way through
Swiftmud’s hydrogeologists and engineers for years, the emergence of the
plan on a public agenda and an upcoming decision is sudden.

There are no other 50 year water plans in the state. Most only go out 20
years. This impacts all pending water plans.

Ryan Taylor of Polk County, assistant manager, says that we need to know
what the impact will be, if any, and what can be done to share this
limited resource.”

And so, does the Water War begin? Stay tuned........

Posted May 13,
2018

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

I Want
a Daycation!

Starting Memorial Day Weekend for
$199 Florida residents ($229 for others) can take a Lakeland Legacy flight
to Key West for the day. That’s right, a round trip flight from Lakeland
Linder airport to Key West. It certainly beats a seven to eight hour trip
by auto.

There are future plans for the company to fly to the Bahamas, Bimini,
Gatlinburg, Tennessee and Savannah, Georgia for other “daycations”.

flight the same day but in the future will be able to stay overnight.

Legacy air has a fleet of 30 passenger turboprop Saab 340B aircraft.

(Did you know that you can also take a boat from Fort Meyers at 8 a.m. and
be in Key West in 4 hours. You can return to Fort Meyer at 5 pm or stay
overnight and return the next day.)

If You
Are a Lakeland Theatre Goer..........

The Lakeland Center or RP Funding
Center is getting a new motel. Marriott is building a Spring Hill Suites
in the east side parking lot. There is already a hotel on the north side
of the Center called the Hyatt Place. The

Marriott will take over 340 parking
place and 31 handicapped spots in the eastern parking lot. Yes, parking is
going to be a problem. They are going to create drop off and pick up
lanes.

Mayor Mutz said the new Spring Hill Suites Hotel will increase the
quality, diversity and number of attractions that will come to the RP
Funding Center. It is a a valuable addition to downtown.

Posted May 12,
2018

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Unfair
Alcohol Law in Polk County

Retailers have been saying for some
time that they are at a disadvantage at selling alcohol on Sundays before
noon in unincorporated Polk County. Braswell, a County Commissioner is
trying to get this law changed. Some lawmakers say that the law should be
changed to be fair to all retailers in Polk County. Consistency is needed.

The “Braswell Motion” will be reviewed and another modified version will
be presented the county planning department which will then make a
recommendation to the county commissioners at a later date.

In my opinion, the county commissioners have been looking at this law for
over a year and still no decision. What’s the hold up?

Posted May 12,
2018

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

I Am
Embarrassed.....

I have been telling everyone a lie
and I want to apologize but sometimes the news in this area is scanty.

Some of you Carefreeites have been asking me what the gorgeous new
building is at the Orlando Airport. At first,my response was, “it’s a
train depot. “ Later, someone somewhere said that it was the new
international airport. Today I got the story straight from the worker’s
mouth - “It’s the new train depot for the incoming trains from Miami and
Orlando. It will open in 2020”.

I wonder how long
it will be before trains are running from Apopka on I4 to Orlando? This
will happen, you know. Lots of light rail being built and track laid.

Changes May be In Store

The Liquor Law
for our area may be changed to include the selling of liquor on Sunday.
The present law is detrimental to our retailers as stores surrounding
Winter Haven are allowed to sell liquor on Sunday and we are not.

Commissioner Bradshaw is willing to put a new law up for adoption that
says - Be Fair, Winter Haven. Allow the sale of liquor in our stores.

This law has been put before the commissioners vote and was defeated
before. Wonder if it will pass this time?

Posted Mar 15,
2018

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Stone
Cabin

Stone Cabin has announced in our
discount fliers that it will be locating at 7000 Cypress Gardens Road near
the Goodyear Tire place and CVS.

Stone Cabin is famous for its coffee and cheesecake however, they also
serve beer and wine. Their establishment is designed after a stone cabin
complete with a fire pit for relaxing and sipping.

Pictures from the Fundraiser A great time
was had by all and a lot of money was
raised for the American Cancer Society

Pictures by LeRoy Martinson

Posted
Feb 16,
2018

Blood Drive March 1. 2018

9:00am to 12:00pm

Sign up list on bulletin board in
pool hallway (lower clubhouse)

Thank you,

Mary Wedig, Lot 350

863-224-3800

Posted Feb 16,
2018

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In the
News Once More.......

After a meeting of the Major
County Sheriffs of America Winter Meeting in Washington, D.C., Sheriff
Grady Judd was elected as president of the organi-zation for the ensuing
year.

Grady stated in a speech following the election, that sheriffs must
demonstrate strength, courage, confidence, and leadership while protecting
the best interests of the citizens we serve to lead the way to a safer
America.

Grady Judd was elected to this position by his peers for the next two
years.

As the sheriffs are the first responders to a crime scene new strategies,
greater resources and legislative support are needed so said the Vice
President of MCSA Jim McDonnell.

Another accolade for our Grady Judd. Hooray!

The
Saint Sophia Greek Festival

February 16, 17, and 18 was
or is the Greek Festival isheld at the Sophia
Greek Orthodox Church on 1030 Bradbury Road. The food is outstanding and
there will be vendors plus for the children, bounce houses. There will be
Orthodox Greek dancing provided by the youth group of St. Sophia’s Greek
Orthodox Church and St. Barabara’s Hellenic Dancers of Sarasota. A special
musical presentation by the Islanders out of Clearwater is to be enjoyed
by all.

If you are a fan of Baklava, a famous Greek dessert, now’s your chance.

Have you noticed the new
construction site on 27 next to the Hampton Inn? Jim Tarpley told me that
it is to be a new Kia Dealership. Darn....I was hoping for a Cracker
Barrel or Target.

I was also notified that there is a new IHOP coming on Rte 27. Hope it
will hold more people than the present one on 540.

Posted Oct 14,
2017

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The Ovation Restaurant

The Ovation Restaurant is located in
Miller's Landing next to the tanning salon. It prides itself on their beef
brisket and pulled pork but other items are also listed on their menu.
There is a full service bar and seating for about 100. Fast and friendly
service and they will take reservations. Pricing is average with the rest
of the restaurants in our area.

Aren't we fortunate to now have three restaurants in Miller's Landing,
actually four if you count Burger King. Enjoy!

???

How do you like that title?

Thought it appropriate for there is evidence of a building coming on route
27 near our Hampton Hotel. I thought it was suspicious when I saw the new
stop light being installed last year. So far there are only a few sewer
pipes and black construction paper outlining the construction site.

Who can discover first just what is coming to that area?

Posted Aug 10,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Nora Mayo Hall

Yes, the Nora Mayo Hall is back in
the news as the 92nd Annual Citizens of the Year and Banker’s Cup Awards
and the Chamber Annual Meeting was held there recently. This is amazing to
me as the last I had heard the Winter Haven Commissioners and the owners
of the building, the Department of Agriculture could not come to terms.
Now I find out that the Winter Haven Commissioners signed a lease and pays
$300 a year for the next 50 years. Now I wonder who is responsible for
repairs?

A Skate Park for Winter
Haven

The Winter Haven City Commissioners
have approved the monies for a skate park. The funding will also be
supplemented by matching grants.

Now the city has to come up with a plan of where,who to supervise, etc.
The location was suggested to be on the banks of Lake Silver.

WH Main Street Scoops Up
Awards

Recently at the Main Street Awards,
WH took first place for Outstanding Fundraising or Membership Development
Effort. The also received a Merit Award for the refurbishing of the Derry
Downbuilding.

The Derry Down building hosts monthly shows with tons of talented artists.

Posted Aug 10,
2017

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Aldis

Aldis market is adding another location in our
area - on the corner of Thompson Nursery Road. Presently there is a
vetinary clinic at the site. The clinic is being rebuilt behind Wendy's on
Rte 27 and the old one will be torn down to accommodate the market.

I don't know about you but I will be relieved not to have to cross town to
do my Aldi shopping on Rte 17.

The final price of the new Field House to be
located on Cypress Gardens Blvd is $35 million including interest. Now the
Commissioners are in a quandary as to how to pay this off in the next 20
years. Some options under discussion are the raising of taxes, special
assessments, budget cuts or a combination of all of these.

The Kerry Clock Family Restaurant has closed its doors on Havendale Blvd.
after 40 years of business. Some say it is due to illness of the owner.

The Winter Haven Municipal Airport is back in the headlines with the
commissioners looking at a master plan of adding 160 new hangers. The cost
is $39 million but would be covered through grants from the Federal
Aviation Administration and the Florida Department of Transportation.
Winter Haven's responsibility would be about $6 million.

"Dawg Dayz" is coming back to Tanner's restaurant to raise money's for the
Citrus Center's Boys and Girls Club in Winter Haven. A group of musicians
will play Blues, Rag Time, boogie woogie from 2 - 9 p.m. On an inside and
outside stage area. The date is August 12, 2017. Last year, these groups
raised $17000 for the club and this year's goal is $40000. There will also
be an auction for an $8000 Jack Daniels electrical guitar. 600 to 700
people attended last year and they are looking to up the attendance for
this year. It just amazes me as to the amount of entertainment in this
area of Florida. We, as residents of the area, are so fortunate.

Posted July 26,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Winter Haven Commission
Meeting

According to The Ledger, the property tax rate is
to remain the same at the current rate of $5.79 per $1000.

The Commission also voted to accept a bond agreement with Center State
Bank for Phase one of the Chain of Lakes master plan which includes the
multi purpose field house. The bond is for $25.225 million over 20 years
with the city to pay the interest for only the first year. Polk County
will contribute $10 million dollars. The city's portion will remain at $21
million.

Posted June 29,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Flash! Flash! Flash!

As I was walking along the sidewalk in Millers
Landing, I noticed construction occurring in three side by side
establishments. The walls were being demolished to make one large area. I
inquired around to see what was happening and Lo and behold ......it is a
new restaurant! It will be called "Ovation", the same as the little bistro
on rte 27 near Posner's Mall. I have no other details other than what I
have reported but I am excited to have another restaurant in the area.

Posted June 21,
2017

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The Taylor Hotel

The Taylor Hotel is being built by Jeff Donalson
at 310 and 314 W. Central Ave. It will be classified as a high end
contemporary hotel for the business traveler with rooms anywhere from 250
to 500 square feet. It will also house a coffee shop covering the
downstairs and a roof top bar.

The Taylor Hotel will be a destination for wedding guests, major event at
Nora Mayo Hall or the sports guests from the new complex about to be built
on Cypress Gardens Blvd. The hotel will also be a boon to downtown
businesses by creating jobs, adding tax revenue and enhancing
property values downtown.

I am personally glad to see that the historic quality will be kept as The
Taylor Hotel will keep the original brick like the Grove Roots Brewery and
Gram Parson's Derry Down. Hooray for downtown Winter Haven!

Posted June 19,
2017

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Tnother New Restaurant in
Winter Haven

The Nutwood Restaurant has arrived on 132 Ave. B
SW in Winter Haven. Steven Rojas is the owner and chef. Steve has worked
in San Sebastain, Spain and for Michelle Bernstein in Miami.

The Nutwood has received 5 stars for its cuisine of which diners have said
is as good as San Francisco, Chicago, or New York. You have to be patient
once you place your order as your meal is cooked when ordered. They do
have dine in facility or take out. The Nutwood serves lunch on Mon. - Fri.
11 - 2 and dinner Weds., Thurs., Fri., Sat. From 5:30 - 9 p.m.

It is a small interesting menu with all ingredients coming from the farm
to the table. As a result, the tab can be pricy but well worth every bite,
taste and smell.

Posted June 12,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Tempo 1930

Tempo 1930 is coming to Winter Haven this summer.
It will be a restaurant and a blues and jazz place. The restaurant faces
Central Park and is located where the El Norteno Mexican restaurant was at
58 Fourth St. NW. The first Publix in Winter Haven was also located at the
same address in 1930. Hence, this is how Tempo was designated with the
1930.

The restaurant is owned and operated by Omar Andreasen and his wife. They
presently live in Davenport and originally came from Puerto Rico.

The Tempo 1930 will serve New Orleans style food such as Muffulettas,
hot fried Beignets,etouffe, crayfish boils, burgers, salads and
sandwiches. There will be live jazz and blues music every weekend.

Six/Ten is responsible for the renovation of the building for Tempo 1930
and the rental. Six/Ten is the company that is performing the major rehab
of the Winter Haven downtown area. Tempo 1930 and Six/Ten are presently
negotiating the cost of the patio area in the back of the restaurant. Open
dining will be offered in this local, too.

Here is another night spot for entertainment in Winter Haven. We Havenites
are beginning to feel like "Lucky Ducks".

Posted June 9,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Publix

An announcement has been made by the Publix
company that their online delivery service will be extended to all 1100
stores.

As to when the delivery service would begin in Polk County has not been
determined. This delivery service has been a pilot program in Miami, Tampa
and Orlando any a company called Instacart.

Instacart also serves as a deliverer for other stores such as Whole Foods,
Costco and other supermarket chains.

This service has been so well received that it has been expanded into
Daytona Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Melbourne, Naples, Sarasota,
sSarasota, St. Petersburg, Tallahassee and West Palm Beach. It is also in
Charlotte, Atlanta, and other supermarkets in other states.

The Instacart service will become available to all 1148 Publix stores in
2020.

To become a member of Instacart you will set up an account online through
your computer or phone app. You will then select the items you would like
and then designate a time for delivery. These items will include fresh
produce and meats.

The service does not come without a fee....single delivery of orders more
than $35.00 is $5.99 while orders of a minimum of $10 to $35.00 will be
$7.99. You can also choose unlimited delivery for $14.99 monthly charge or
an annual fee of $99 to $149.

Instacart and Publix feel this service will attract tech savy customers as
well as Millinnials and Seniors. There is a demand for this service and it
has been proven by Wal Mart, Kroger and Amazon. Publix tried this service
20 years ago but the Internet was not what it is today and so was not
profitable. With the turn around of so many tech savy people, this service
is now going to be very profitable.

Personally, I feel this service will be of benefit to so many different
ages that it will be an instant success. Wonder what our grandparents
would think about this?

Posted June 8,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

The Winter Haven
Commissioners

The Winter Haven Commissioners have
a hefty agenda for their next meeting as the commissioners may approve the
second phase for Lake Ashton West. This development will include 174 lots
with a tax value of $131,000 yearly.

The commissioners are also going to listen to two ordinances about land
use on the northeast side of Thompson Nursery Road. One of the ordinances
is to rezone 326 acres from agricultural to planned unit development for
single and multi family homes. 10 acres of this land is for commercial
use.
This area would only be zoned for small businesses, medical offices and
small retail shops. Commissioner Chichetto made a comment that more
commercial property was not needed as they had already screwed up
development on Cypress Gardens Blvd.

Hmmmm, wonder what he meant by that comment?

???

As I was driving west on Cypress Gardens Blvd., I
noticed that the Pizza Hut had moved to W.3rd St. NW and the contractors
were demolishing the old Pizza Hut building.

Hence, the question marks.

I have no idea what is going in that space.

Stay tuned.

Posted June 4,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

The Hurricane Hunters

The Hurricane Hunters, airplanes that give us the
data about hurricanes, have been relocated to Linder Regional Airport in
Lakeland, Fl. Before this, they were located at MacDill Air Force Base out
of Tampa, Fl. For some reason, MacDill needed the Hurricane Hunter space
so Linder Regional Airport was the lucky winner.

The building for housing their operations and aircraft was completed even
before the contract was signed. The contract is for five years and could
be indefinite.

The Hurricane Hunters consist of a group of nine weather observation
planes, 110 employees including pilots, mechanics, technicians and
scientists. This group continues to keep us safe during potential and real
threats of hurricanes. Their information is invaluable for our safety.

Pres. Trump's Budget has slashed the NOAA funding as well as other
scientific research organizations. Hopefully Congress will address this
situation.

Posted June 1,
2017

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The First Ever Bourbon
and Blues Festival

Many of you are going to want to be in Winter
Haven for this event. The Bourbon and Blues Festival is being held at the
listening room of Gram Parsons' Derry Down at 297 W. Fifth St. NW as a
fund raiser for Main Street revitalization program that has been in effect
for 22 years and is being held June 1.

Many bourbons will be featured for tasting such as Woodford Reserve,
Angels Envy, Gentleman Jack, etc. Wine, water, soda and a signature mock
tail as well as food vendors and craft beer will also be served. Along
with the tasting by volunteers and distillery representatives there will
be blues performed by Laurie Wright and the Rusty Wright Band.

It is hoped that this event will become a yearly fund raiser for the Main
Street revitalization program.

District
hydrologists report a rainfall deficit of 11-inches since the start of the
dry season last October. In fact, this is the driest dry season in the past
103 years.

Under the
new water shortage order, lawn watering is reduced to once-per-week and
allowable watering hours also are reduced. Micro-irrigation and hand
watering of non-lawn areas are still allowed any day, if needed.
Additionally, there are now limits on car washing and homeowners’
associations may not enforce any deed restrictions which could cause an
increase in water use. The restrictions will remain in effect through
August 1, 2017. Additional details regarding the watering of new lawns and
plants, reclaimed water and other water uses can be found at
WaterMatters.org/restrictions.

The
District considerers both natural water resource conditions and the
viability of public supply when deciding to declare a water shortage order.
For the past 20 years, the District has worked diligently with its partners
to develop alternative water supplies. Even though the region is
experiencing drought conditions, there is adequate public water supply
available.

Florida’s
dry season runs October through May. The District encourages water
conservation year-round, and offers many tips to reduce water use and
additional information at
WaterMatters.org/conservation.

Posted May 24,
2017

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The Lakeland Center Has a
New Name

The Lakeland Center has a corporate name. It's
now called RP Funding Center. This is a five year deal and you will see RP
Funding on all the bill boards and signage at The Lakeland Center.

RP Funding, out of Orlando, is the major stockholder in the Magic
basketball team. Since the Magic's D Team will now be playing at the
Lakeland Center it made more since to call the building RP Funding.

Lakeland and RP Funding worked out a deal for the sale of the building
over 5 years for a total of 5 million dollars. The name of Youkey Theatre
and George Jenkins Arena will remain the same.

RP Funding Center is a multipurpose entertainment complex with an 8000
seat George Jenkins Area, a 2200 Youkey Theatre and 100,00 square feet of
meeting and exhibition space. A variety of events are held here yearly.

By becoming the RP Funding Center, it will help increase revenue for
operations and it will continue to be a self sustaining venue.

By the backing of RP Funding more events will take place such as concerts
and sports.

Welcome RP Funding.

Posted May 13,
2017

Rental Listings on
Website

Old outdated rental
listings have been removed from the Carefree
Website.

Anyone that had a rental property should check
to see if your listing is still active on the website.

If you need your property re-listed just fill out the rental form and send
it for listing.

Posted May 10,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Winter Haven Field House
Is Under Contract

According to the May 9, 2017 Ledger,
The Winter Haven City Commissoners voted 4 - 1 to accept a lease agreement
with the county that will fund Phase 1 of the city's Chain of Lakes master
plan and that is the field house that will have sporting events and
business conferences.

The cost of Phase 1 is 21.8 million with the county pledging 11 million
over 20 years. This will include the costs of the master plan along with
tourist-development dollars.

Now the city of Winter Haven has to figure out how they will add their
funds to the project. They have until September 30 to devise a plan. Some
thinking is going to raising taxes. The mayor, Steve Hunnicutt is also
going to take a hard look at the budget for other cuts.

The field house will be home for practice of the Lakeland Magic's D Team.
They will need two of the six proposed courts and space for lockers and
administrative personnel. The city will be responsible for operation and
that cost would be between $723,000 and $884,000.

The World of Avatar

Pandora World of Avatar land has arrived at Walt
Disney World's Animal Kingdom. 12 acres of land was used to develop this
project and will open in Florida in late May. It cost half-billion to
produce.

The Flight of Passage is the main attraction where one will use 3D glasses
as you ride into the "cinematic world". It will seem like you are riding
on the back of the banshee as you are astride your motorcycle.

According to the Ledger, Pandora World of Avatar doesn't look like much
during the daytime but at night transforms into a sea of color with
glowing lights on artificial plants.

The second part of this world is called Na'vi River Journey and it's a
ride down a river in the dark with glowing plants and creatures while a
drum played by a Na'vi animatronic woman beats into a crescendo while
voices sing. Throughout the ride, real and artificial plants intermingle
and some alien pods look like Dale Chihuly glass sculptures.

Disney is also testing a new way to order food and it is being tried at
Pandora. Visitors can find a menu on the My Disney Experience mobile app
and order lunch and go on visiting the park. When it's time to eat, go to
the canteen tap on an app button and notify the cook you are here for
lunch. Voila! No waiting in line and your lunch is served within minutes.

Posted May 8,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Hear Ye! Hear Ye!

Katie Worthington, CEO of the
Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce has announced a new hotel for
Winter Haven and guess what? It's in the middle of the downtown area. It
will face Central Avenue and be close to W. 3rd St. SW.

This hotel has yet to be named but Katie stated that it will be a boutique
hotel that will be six stories tall and hold 75 rooms. Jeff Donaldson is
the builder.

It was decided that it was time for this to happen as there are no motels
close by and many of the businesses downtown would reap the benefits of
the hotel. Bond Clinic is building another close by building and according
to Katie, the city has acquired Nora Mayo Hall and will use that space for
events. There will also be a Field House coming in 2019 with the Magic D
Team. All of these factors helped to determine a need for an upscale hotel
downtown

The Whiskey and Wheaties
Bill (SB 106)

The owners of small independent
liquor stores in central Florida are saying that the above Bill that is
presently in the Legislature, could put them out of business. They are
asking their customers to sign petitions against this Bill.

According to the Ledger, "Whiskey and Wheaties Bill" would allow grocery
stores, big box retailers and other stores to sell liquor, wine, beer and
other products. Gov. Scott is ready to sign this bill.

The independent stores are against the bill saying the grocery stores and
others would put them out of business starting in 2018. They will have a
price and convenience advantage and they can also kick
the "little guy" out of their building. For example, when you go in a
grocery store you don't see a butcher or a florist as there is a no
compete clause in their lease. And so it would be for the small
independent liquor stores - no compete - so out you go.

This bill would also change how beer, liquor and wine can be made,
distributed and sold. Brewers and distillers will be able to sell directly
to customers in pubs and in takeout jugs called growlers.

ABC Stores and Publix are opposed to the bill as it increases access of
alcohol to minors.

Tallahassee Winners and
Losers

As the
2017legislative session closes, there are some winners and losers to be
thought about.

For example the winners -

1. The final budget by the legislature granted the university system of
Florida $590 million more for its universities, including $300 million for
operating expenses $121 million for increasing student financial aid and
$180 million for the state's Bright Futures scholarship.

2. Homestead Tax Increase - this would effect homes of $100,000 or more.
The average Florida homeowner would save $275. The downside of this being
cities may have to raise taxes to meet their budgets.

3. Funding of a Reservoir - This reservoir would hold polluted water
coming our of Lake Okeechobee that is then released into canals that feed
into St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee rivers. This pollution causes toxic
green algae blooms on both Florida coasts. The polluted water would be
treated and then released into the canals. The fresh water would also help
the Everglades. This project could help South Florida's ecosystems for
years and years.

4. Charter Schools - The legislators want to increase the growth of these
schools as public school are struggling in low performance scores. Perhaps
these could be called the "schools of hope" by rescuing kids trapped in
failing schools. Critics say this is an attack on public schools which did
not do well in this legislative session. Some monies would be diverted to
Charter Schools from the Pubic School Budget.

And now for the Losers -

1. Hospitals - The legislators reduced the money for reimbursements paid
by Medicaid. By allowing this reduction are we not hindering the health
care choices for the poor?

2. Florida Forever - This is the "Grand" land conservation program. This
allows money to be spent to buy land for the state when it becomes
available.
Some House members say the state has too much conserved land and so the
money was going to clean polluted water coming from Lake Okeechobee.

3. Casinos - The Seminole Indians want to expand their table games to
include craps and roulette, paramutuals that do horse and dog racing and
cut back on slot machines and poker rooms. The House will not budge on
allowing slot machines in 8 Florida counties where voters approved them
for paramutuals buildings. Paramutuals have not been ok'd by the
legislature in the Seminole Casinos. This will be revisited in the next
session of the Legislature.

4. Marijuana - The Florida Marijuana bill was passed last year but the
lawmakers have not passed the amendment. Medical Marijuana will become
available even though the legislators have not acted upon It. The state
department has until July 1, 2017 to establish rules. Some think the rules
will be too strict and could end in court cases of patients.

Posted May 5,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Community Schools

Polk County School District is
discussing the idea of a Community School for a high need school area.
Four committees have been formed with the chair being the Assistant
Superintendent of Schools John Small. The committees are a group of 30
members. These committees will select a pilot school, figure out the roles
of the community partners and the district's job.

The Community School would be a hub for learning, health and social
services. Imagine having a dentist on hand to work with children's dental
problems and a social worker to see to their needs as well as the
educators to give them a firm foundation in learning

There are about 5000 community schools working in 44 states serving 5.1
million schools. The main body of community schools consists of a school
district, lead nonprofit organization, a university and a healthcare
entity.
The Community Partners for Polk County would be Polk State College, United
Way of Central Florida, Heartland for Children and Central Florida Health
Clinic. The funding will come from the community and business partners and
there will be grants through UCF.

The question is "who will be the first school? The Committee would like it
to be an elementary school that is in jeapordy while others would like it
to begin in a high school. There is evidence that Community Schools will
work after visiting several of these schools in Florida. The committee for
Community Schools would like to see the first school in operation in 2018.

Homestead Exemptions

Polk County and the state is considering
increasing Homestead exemptions from $50,000 to $75,000. It would be the
biggest tax break for Florida homeowners in years. But, folks, there is a
downside to this proposition - the possibility of the municipalities
raising taxes to meet their budgets.

Cities could lose $10.7 million if voters pass the proposed constitutional
amendment at the November, 2018 election.

Residents of Polk County could be saving up to $200 a year with the new
exemption but it could mean an ax to the city budget slashing services and
raising taxes. The state legislature has voted for the exemption. One
Representative, Colleen Burton said that it was a brilliant idea to put
this up to a vote of the people and not just a few committee people.

Well, folks, think it over and get out and vote in the November 2018
election.

Posted May 4,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Winter Haven City Manager

The Winter Haven City Manager has been hired.
Mike Herr has been hired by the City Commissioners at a salary of
$175,000, 20 days of vacation and all city benefits. Herr previously
served as Polk County's Manager and as Town Manager in Dundee. There had
been talk by some commissioners that they had wanted to hire someone
familiar with Central Florida and so Herr "fit the bill". However,
Commissioner Macy Butler was not impressed. Her comment was, " Then why
did we hire Colin Baenziger and associates to help with our Manager
search?" Money down the drain? (That's my thought as I type.)

Meanwhile,at the same meeting, the Commissioners discussed the funding of
the Field House to be located on Cypress Gardens Blvd. where the old
baseball stadium was located. This Field House is to include recreational
- in the form of four basketball courts - space and conference space. The
Chain of Lakes Master Plan which includes the Field House will cost about
$21.8 million with the county contributing 10 million to the project with
another 1 million on top of that.

Winter Haven estimates that they are going to have to pay a $25 million
bond over the next 25 years to finance the project. So we are back to
talking raising taxes for Winter Haven for the financing. Birdsong said
that the tax raise would still be less than what they paid in 2006 - 2007
. Birdsong is not in favor of raising taxes for the project but that
services should be cut. The Bond has to be in place by September 30 if
this, indeed, is the way we go. Meanwhile, the mayor will look at the
present budget closely to find potential cuts.

The city and Polk County want to vote on this issue at next Monday's
meeting but several commissioners have said that they are not ready to
vote. - Too many "what ifs" in this financial project.

Posted May 3,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Attention Carefree People

How many of you have become ill during your
winter stay in Carefree and used the Cypress Urgent Care and had to wait
forever to see the doctor? I know I have.

Well, now you can call ahead for an appointment instead of sitting there
with all the other sick people.

Just use their website at CYPRESS WALKIN.COM. For an appointment.

Now, how convenient is that?

Posted Apr 29,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

The Grove Roots

A fun place to taste locally crafted beers, play
games, dine from a variety of food trucks and listen or dance to good
music.

Grove Roots is located at 302 W. 3rd St. Winter Haven and is open from 4 -
11.

Do put this on your To Do List for your next Florida season.

Posted Apr 21,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Another Nora Mayo Hall Update

Now that the Winter Haven City Commissioners have
met to discuss the renting of Nora Mayo Hall, some commissioners are
uncertain if they truly want the building. Up for grabs is a 50 year lease
for $300 annually for a building that was completed in 1950. It was called
the Florida Citrus Building. The city had put in a bid to purchase the
building but it was denied by the state.

The City Commissioners are Leary of renting as the city is responsible for
all repairs and the uses for the building will have to be approved by the
state.

Some uses for this building are : - as a City Hall and leasing or renting
the other areas of the building for banquets, events.

Maintenance of the building would cost the city an estimated $62000
annually. If used for events only that raises to $228,000. For city
services and events the estimated cost is $562000. Many commissioners feel
the building would be too costly with our other capital improvements about
to begin. The plan for now is to get a consensus for necessary
maintenance, paints and other beautification.

The commissioners are concerned about the cost of Nora Mayo Hall when
there is discussion about raising taxes in the city for the other capital
improvements that are a "done deal". There will be a vote next Monday on
whether to obtain an estimate for renovations and leasing. Stay tuned!
What a saga!

City Manager Search Is
Unusual

After Deric Feacher was fired as Winter Haven
City Manager,Colin Baenzinger of the Daytona
Beach Shores based firm of Colin Baenzinger and Assoc. was contracted to
help the city find a manager.

The process previously used was that of collecting resumes and narrowing
the list down to about 10 for an interview. The City Commissioners decided
not to use this old process and directed Baenzinger to find good fits and
to see if they are truly interested. Baenzinger is acting as a recruiter
for the City Manager position. This is very unusual in Florida because of
public records law. Any communication through email makes it a public
record. So all applicants will be a matter for public record.

Winter Haven commissioners want Colin to move quickly and so far are
amazed that no one from Central Florida has applied.

The commissioners need a City Manager in place as there are $40 million
worth of capital improvements on six projects. They are looking for a
manager that will stay in Winter Haven for awhile.

The commissioners have interviewed four candidates but could not arrive at
a majority vote for their employment. So it's back to the "drawing board"
for Colin's company. In the meantime, T. Michael Starves, acting city
manager has been reinstated for another year.

Posted Apr 20,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Nora Mayo Hall is in the Headlines Again

As we all know, Nora Mayo Hall is a building in
Winter Haven that is owned by the state but that they now have no use for
it. The city of Winter Haven has made several monetary offers for the
building but were denied each time by the state. Winter Haven would
definitely appreciate this building for additional space for city
operations and as a meeting place for large audiences and banquets.

The "worm has turned" as the state is contemplating leasing the building
to the city for $300 a year. There is an architect looking into the cost
of renovations to Nora Mayo Hall. Some estimates are calling for $1
million. The city would be responsible for the renovations.

Could this be a gift from the state or a stone around our neck in the form
of more taxes needed for the renovation?

Posted Apr 18,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Rumors, rumors, rumors

We have been hearing via the "grape vine" that a
HobbyLobby or perhaps a Ross's will take over
the old KMart building in the Publix Plaza. This was even posted on
Facebook however, none of it is true.

There have been many inquires from many different businesses but so far no
one has taken the bait. Just because the store is close to Legoland
doesn't mean a thing for Ross's or any other clothing store because who
wants to shop for clothing if they are visiting the park?

Katie Worthington, president and CEO of Greater Winter Haven Chamber of
Commerce said that a Target is on the top of the retail list according to
people she has asked. Worthington said she is also looking into
entertainment such as a movie theatre, go carts, etc.

According to Brian Swain asset manager for Southern Professional Real
Estate it will take a long time to find the right tenant to pay the price
of the owner to renovate for the business. Yes, it's the owner of the
building that will have to shoulder the expensive renovations so the fit
has to be just right.

Do you know that Winter Haven has their own
orchestra and will be performing Saturday, March 11, 2017 at the Polk
State Theatre in a concert called, "Champagne and Shamrocks. The group is
conducted by Virginia Davidson and will include Irish ballads amidst other
genres.

All monies generated from these concerts go to scholarships of Winter
Haven area high school seniors and Polk State college students who are
interested in a music career.

The concert season begins in October with an outdoor concert, in December,
they perform a seasonal concert, and then comes Champagne and Shamrocks
followed by a free Spring concert in May called the "Young Peoples
Concert".

How fortunate we are to have the Winter Haven Theatre and the Winter Haven
Symphony. Cultural activities abound in the Winter Haven area.

Posted Mar 8,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Here We Go Again

According to Florida State Law, no alcoholic
beverages may be sold on Sunday until noon and then only beer and wine.
There has been a cry to have the law changed so that alcoholic beverages
may be sold on Sunday starting at 7 a.m. The problem remains that areas
close to Polk have laws that enable them to sell alcohol on Sunday
starting at 7 a.m. The owners of 7 Eleven and other stores in Polk County
are not allowed to sell the beverages and this puts them at a
disadvantage.

There are new commissioners on the Polk County
Board and they support the move to sell alcoholic beverages on Sunday at 7
a.m. Keep your fingers crossed that the law passes.

Posted Feb 28,
2017

2017 Street Bocce
Games

Week 4, Feb 27
Results

Championship
Game 6thStreet
- 200
Bandana Gang – 169

Consolation
Game5th
Street -
176
8th Street
- 154

Sixth Street
is the new Street Bocce Game Champion

Results of the
previous games:

Week 1: Bandana Gang
168 -- 8th Street 167

“A- Team 158 -- 7th Street 157

Week 2:
6th Street 152 -- 5th Street 146

Week 3:
6th
Street 162 --“A” Team
146

5th
Street 188 -- 7th Street 145

A great job was
put in by everyone involved.

Great games,
great spectator support, and great job

by Maggie Freer,
Terri Sartori and their crew.

Thanks to
everyone involved.

Bob Westphal

Posted Feb 24,
2017

2017 Carefree Club Tournament

Never played in the Tournament?

The Dawsons, #448, will pay the $10 entry to the first 5 Players who have
NEVER played in Carefree's Tournament!

Every 10th Player that signs up will receive a Free Grill Ticket to be
used Mar. 17 or Mar. 29! Value of $5.00

"Be a part of Carefree's Club Tournament!"C

Posted Feb 25,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Are Winter Haven Property Taxes Going Up?

Well it's financial time for the building of the
new "classy" field house that is to be built on the old Cleveland Indians
stadium grounds on Cypress Gardens Blvd. There is a $25 million bond on
the table to build the field house. The field house is more than just a
gym as it will also house business offices, an indoor track, a large
meeting hall and of course, a gymnasium. The Field House came into being
because the Magic's D League will be using the gym as a practice facility.

Commissioner Brad Dantzler made note saying that
he was disgusted with the field house project as there would be "very
little tourist draw". Mr. Dantzler further stated that the when the
Indians were in Winter Haven for training they had little economic effect
on the city either.

The Polk County Tourist Development Council has
stated they would be willing to help pay for the $25 million dollar bond
by giving the city $10 million. That would leave the city of Winter Haven
accountable for $15 million. $10 million of these monies would be
committed to the field house and the remaining $5 million would be used to
build and equip Southeast Fire Station, a skate park and perhaps
renovations to Nora Mayo Hall if we purchase that building from the state.

All of this building and renovating would cause our property taxes to go
up to $6.85 per $1000. That's nearly $1 per thousand increase.

Question? If we are going to construct a field house to become more than a
gym with banquet facilities, offices, etc. why even try to purchase Nora
Mayo Hall from the state? Yes, it would probably give more office space to
our City Government and Police Department and all be under one roof. (Just
doing my thinking out loud as I type, Folks. Sorry.)

JC Penney Is Closing

Boy! Is that title ever going to start rumors.
Yes, JC Penney is closing a distribution center in Lakeland and many other
low performing stores country wide. The company will decide by mid March
just which stores would be closing. Keep your fingers crossed that our JC
Penney store will remain at the Eagle Ridge Mall.

Posted Feb 25,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Steady As She Goes

Steady as she goes seems to be the consensus of home builders and the
analysis by John Hall that home building permits are on the rise in Polk
County but with no discernible city obtaining more permits than another.
It is a definite reason to say that we are out of the "Great Depression"
occurring between 2003 to 2006.

Posted Feb 18,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Space X Launch

After six years of quietness, NASA's Launch Complex 39A came to life. A
Space X Falcon rocket will be launched to take supplies to the
International Space Station on Saturday, February 18, 2017

It is the first planned launch since the rocket explosion on a neighboring
pad. This accident caused the company called Space X to ready pad 39A
quickly in order to launch the rocket.

Polk County Tax Increase?

The County Commissioners are thinking of more taxes
for residents living in northeast Polk. This includes Winter Haven, Haines
City, and Poinciana areas. More money is needed for road improvement as
this area is to see large population growth. Road improvements mean better
drainage, widening of roads and intersection improvements.

My question is - Whatever happened to the Toll Road that was to go from
Home Depot on Rte 27 north to I4? I know that the state voted it down as
they felt there would not be enough population to support the road but
then it went to privatization and nothing more has been heard. Hmmmm.

Posted Jan 12,
2017

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

We All Scream for Ice Cream

Recently Polk County was polled as to where to find the best ice cream.
Five winners were announced and our own Andy's Igloo was a big winner. Not
only are they famous for their ice cream but they also serve breakfast,
lunch and dinner. They are closed on Sunday. Did you know that Andy's was
once a Dairy Queen?

All I know for certain is Andy's Igloo is the first place my grands ask to
go when they arrive in Florida. Yum!

Posted Dec 22, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Announcing.........

The Marriott Hotel will be building two hotels in Winter Haven to aid in
bringing tourists to our area. The first of the hotels will be built on
the south side of Lake Dexter near the Legoland Beach Resort in June,
2017.

The Marriott will consist of 111 rooms with no restaurant nor conference
facilities.

It is the consensus of opinion that more people would stay overnight in
our area if the proper accommodations were available. Most of our motels
were built before 1979 with outside corridors that are not popular
anymore. According to The Ledger, "We don't have the quality of properties
or the quantity of properties. More people would stay over night in Winter
Haven if better lodging were available.

Hooray for the Marriott!

Posted Dec 21, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

It's Official

The Winter Haven Commissioners have approved the "Grand Commons" known as
the Chain of Lakes Master Plan. The official voting will take place
January 9 but all in all, it's a done deal.

The Master Plan includes a field house which will include six basketball
courts,space for conventions and banquets (good - bye
Nora Mayo Hall?) rubberized indoor track, activity rooms and space to
expand for other recreation or meeting rooms.

The Chain of Lakes outdoor recreation areas will include four baseball
fields, two multipurpose fields, two half court basketball areas, a
festival area,an activity pool, a sandy beach and a floating stage on Lake
Lulu.

On the list of possibilities are walkways, docks, concession stands, boat
rentals and a skate or dog park.

The whole concept, according to the Commissioners, is about sports and
being a community.

There are problems to deal with this plan. The foremost is the entrance to
the Grand Commons from congested Cypress Gardens Blvd. and water quality
problems. The "fix" for these problems will not be easy.

Posted Dec 16, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

The Magic's D - League Team

According to The Ledger, the Orlando Magic's D - League team is going to
be playing its games in the Lakeland Center but practicing in Winter Haven
at a soon to be built Field House at the Chain of Lakes Complex.

There is a problem with this concept in that the Field House is only a
dream on paper according to the Commissioners of Winter Haven. They are
still gathering ideas by visiting other field houses and from other
organizations in the Chain of Lakes area such as Winter Haven Theatre and
various swimmer and aquatic members. Hopefully, ground will be broken for
this facility in 2017. The budget is 22.6 million dollars. Winter Haven
has already committed 10 million dollars to this project.

Also announced is the renovation of the Chain of Lakes Complex into an
arts and cultural center for $4.5 million. It is suggested that the
planned field house will somehow connect with the cultural center and it
will house business offices and a fitness center.

Under discussion for the Chain of Lakes are four baseball or softball
fields and soccer or lacrosse field outside of the field house.

But wait a minute! Wasn't there a lawsuit with Tony What's His Name over
the initial construction of the Chain of Lakes Complex? Is the lawsuit
settled? If so, it certainly was settled on the QT.

Posted Dec 14, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

The Shop

The Downtown Winter Haven group of 6-10 have been working diligently to
rehab buildings and along with the Chamber of Commerce bring new business
to our downtown area. Welcome to "The Shop". The Shop is located in a
1920's era building at 329 W. Central Ave., downtown Winter Haven.

The Shop's inventory includes great gifts for all of those special
occasions and useful gifts from Florida the Sunshine State. The Shop's
owner is Eve Bass. What a great stop and shop on your way to Central Park
for a concert or to Arabella's for a special dinner.

Posted Dec 12, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Nearby Historical Walking Tours

Thanks to Apps, grants and historical knowledge Lake Wales and Bartow have
set up walking tours for their historical towns. This app idea grew after
St. Augustine did this for their 500th anniversary. A $5000 grant was
awarded by the Florida Humanities Council for Lake Wales and Bartow to
write good history and promote the use of the app.

Ybor City is already using the app concept for their history and Key West
is looking at this concept, too.

Put on your walking shoes, download the app called "Florida Stories". Open
the App and select "Discover". It takes 3 minutes to download then pick
your town or city. It also takes 3GB of storage to download.

What a great idea to promote tourism of our area.

Posted Dec 11, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Nells Kitchen?

Nells Kitchen has reopened under a new name and new
management.

Andy Paragios has taken over the popular Winter Haven restaurant and
renamed it the Lake Shipp Diner. Andy Paragios is the son of the owner of
A&G restaurant on the corner of Havendale and route 17. Andy has trained
under his father's steady hand and as a result has established a menu that
is full of homemade ideas - Shepherd's Pie, chicken and dumplings, etc. He
also is featuring hamburgers 15 different ways and omelettes 20 different
ways.

The restaurant has been completely renovated and is located at 1518
Seventh ST. SW. See you there.

Wal Mart in Mulberry and Bartow is beginning an on
line grocery shopping and pick up service for its customers. This service
is already in existence in Haines City and Lake Wales. If you would like
to order your groceries go to www. Walmart.com/grocery online or use the
Wal Mart Grocery mobile app. Enter your zip code and make out your grocery
list. When you checkout of the site, a time to pick up your groceries is
chosen.

When it's time to pick up your groceries, drive to the designated Wal-Mart
and call a designated number so the Associate is aware you are present.
The Associate will load your groceries into your car and away you go.

What a great service for our handicapped, new mothers, etc. My question is
- Why are these services not available in Winter Haven? We have the same
Super Centers as the other Wal- Marts?

Rezoning Issue

As of October 24, the Winter Haven Commissioners
have rezoned land on Thompson Nursery Road from agriculture to planned
unit development. This rezoning will pave the way for an assisted
living facility on the Thompson Nursery Road near Lake Ashton. The
assisted living facility will remain a 4 story facility rather than 6
stories.

The location for this facility has been stated as to being well back
off Nursery Thompson Road and about 1/4 mile from Lake Ashton.

Posted Sept 29, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Another Ground Breaking Ceremony in Polk
County

On September 28, the USA Water Skiing Foundation "
broke ground for a new USA Training Center and Water Sports Complex in
Auburndale." This complex is the only one of its kind in the world and
will be come the future host of the Water Ski Cup.

Originally, this sports group was headquartered in Switzerland. The
board has five representatives from the five continents.

The new complex will not have to rely on speed boats for towing skiers
and wake boarders but a system of cables. The two ski lakes will be
man made and will have a pro shop and a cafe.

A Sea World Announcement

Sea World is going VR or virtual reality on some
rides. Headsets will given to riders on Kraken and will help achieve
the sensation of traveling with and through the sea of mythical and
prehistoric creatures. The creatures many even be 3 - D.

Sea World is using $175 million to enhance their park. Some changes
you will note are a remodeling of the Dolphin Nursery and a new food
and wine festival with more festival in the offing - Bands, Brew and
BBQ using craft beers, Viva la Musica. Sea World will also add
Flamecraft Bar next to the Sea Fire Grill.

During the Florida summer nights, Sea World will offer an Electric
Ocean night show with special lighting, fountains, music, live
performances and fireworks.

Posted Oct 25, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Wal Mart Begins On Line Grocery Service

Wal Mart in Mulberry and Bartow is beginning an on
line grocery shopping and pick up service for its customers. This service
is already in existence in Haines City and Lake Wales. If you would like
to order your groceries go to www. Walmart.com/grocery online or use the
Wal Mart Grocery mobile app. Enter your zip code and make out your grocery
list. When you checkout of the site, a time to pick up your groceries is
chosen.

When it's time to pick up your groceries, drive to the designated Wal-Mart
and call a designated number so the Associate is aware you are present.
The Associate will load your groceries into your car and away you go.

What a great service for our handicapped, new mothers, etc. My question is
- Why are these services not available in Winter Haven? We have the same
Super Centers as the other Wal- Marts?

Rezoning Issue

As of October 24, the Winter Haven Commissioners
have rezoned land on Thompson Nursery Road from agriculture to planned
unit development. This rezoning will pave the way for an assisted
living facility on the Thompson Nursery Road near Lake Ashton. The
assisted living facility will remain a 4 story facility rather than 6
stories.

The location for this facility has been stated as to being well back
off Nursery Thompson Road and about 1/4 mile from Lake Ashton.

Posted Sept 29, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Another Ground Breaking Ceremony in Polk
County

On September 28, the USA Water Skiing Foundation "
broke ground for a new USA Training Center and Water Sports Complex in
Auburndale." This complex is the only one of its kind in the world and
will be come the future host of the Water Ski Cup.

Originally, this sports group was headquartered in Switzerland. The
board has five representatives from the five continents.

The new complex will not have to rely on speed boats for towing skiers
and wake boarders but a system of cables. The two ski lakes will be
man made and will have a pro shop and a cafe.

A Sea World Announcement

Sea World is going VR or virtual reality on some
rides. Headsets will given to riders on Kraken and will help achieve
the sensation of traveling with and through the sea of mythical and
prehistoric creatures. The creatures many even be 3 - D.

Sea World is using $175 million to enhance their park. Some changes
you will note are a remodeling of the Dolphin Nursery and a new food
and wine festival with more festival in the offing - Bands, Brew and
BBQ using craft beers, Viva la Musica. Sea World will also add
Flamecraft Bar next to the Sea Fire Grill.

During the Florida summer nights, Sea World will offer an Electric
Ocean night show with special lighting, fountains, music, live
performances and fireworks.

Posted Sept 22, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Food Truck Wars

This Saturday in Central Park, Winter Haven, Fl, the
Food Truck Wars will occur with five prizes awarded. Doors open at
2p.m. - 8 p.m.

Awards are going to the best in food sales, ticket taking, desserts
and people's choice. Last year the event drew 20,000 visitors to
Central Park and this year they are expecting 25,000.

Food Truck vendors will be arriving from all over the state of
Florida. What a chance to "show off" the jewel of Winter Haven called
Central Park.

Posted Sept 10, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Bok Tower

September 10, 2016 marked the date of the dedication
of the 16 million dollar addition to the gardens at Bok Tower.

The additions include a children's garden which include word stones
that can be moved around and formed into sentences, a spider web for
climbing as well as limestone rocks, and turtle tunnels for crawling.
Also included is a Discovery Center for educational programs, an
outdoor kitchen, an agricultural area and a pine forest, wetlands and
an oak hammock similar to that of old Florida.

Bok Tower was a vision of Edward Bok who wanted to create a "garden
brimming with native Florida vegetation and at its center, a towering
carillon". Bok Tower is located at 1151 Tower Blvd in Lake Wales,
Florida.

Visiting Bok Tower is a joy of Florida vegetation, flowers and a place
of serenity and peace. Enjoy!

Posted Sept 8, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Winter Haven's Derry Down Project

Derry Down is a venue located at 301 Fifth St. NW
started initially by Gram Parsons, the creator of Cosmic American
music. Gram, himself, has performed with many outstanding musical
groups and many of these groups have performed at Derry Down.

Derry Downs originally was owned by Gram's step father as a teenager
hang out but upon the death of Gram at age 27, Derry Downs became
deserted and was left to deteriorate.

Thanks to Six/Ten who donated the building back to Winter Haven and
the work of Anita Strang, Main Street executive director, who raised
the monies needed for renovation, Derry Downs once again will be
hosting concerts of groups performing the genre of Cosmic American
Music.

Les Dubek performs at Derry Downs Sept. 10 and the second annual
Cosmic American Music Festival is on Sept. 16 - 17. Jim Lauderdale
will perform on October 29. In case you didn't know, Jim has received
the Lifetime Achievement Award from American Honors.

This will be another music outlet for Winter Haven's lovers of all
genres of music. Come join the fun.

The Micro Brewery

Winter Haven's first microbrewery is about ready to open
thanks to Joe Dunham and Six/Ten LLC. Six Ten LLC is the developing agency
for downtown Winter Haven and Joe Dunham is a hometown boy who has always
had a love for brewing beer.

The microbrewery is located at 302 Third St. S.W. In a downtown warehouse.
The brewery opens September 17th and features rustic furnishings with an
industrial look. It has a state of the art brewing and tap system. It is
called Grove Roots as the beer will feature fruits from the groves as well
as grains.

Grove Roots also has an outdoor biergarten that is dog friendly and a
bocce ball court. Inside there is seating for 100 people. Food is not a
priority for the brewery so Food Trucks have been invited to take part and
will be available on Thursday, Friday and Saturday located adjacent to the
brewery.

This sounds like a fun place and a welcome addition to the Winter Haven
social scene. Good luck to Grove Roots.

Posted Aug 8, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Thompson Nursery Road News

A proposal has been made by Fifth Third Bank to rezone
land from agricultural to planned unit development in order to erect
an assisted living facility. Objections have been raised by residents
of the area as to traffic problems on Thompson Nursery Road and the
distance between hospitals in Lake Wales and Winter Haven. Winter
Haven Commissioners have also raised an objection as a new sewage line
would have to be constructed and that means a new lift station to the
tune of $1 million dollars. Where will that money come from?

Other facilities of this nature have been constructed by the builder
in Solivita and Champions Gate and they are worth $51 million dollars.
This building, if built, would increase property taxes for Winter
Haven.

Since this reading was the first reading of the new ordinance Winter
Haven commissioners were not required to vote on the proposal. The
second reading will be August 22 and a vote will be held.

Complaints,
Complaints, Complaints

Verizon was
bought out by Frontier Communications on April 1, 2016 and during the
transition period it has been nothing but grumbling. Internet is
freezing up, billing is incorrect, and so on and so on. The grumbling
got so bad that the office of Pam Bondi got involved.

In the past few months the complaints have become fewer, according to
The Ledger ,due to the hard work by Frontier. The company is ready to
market its services and let's face it, they have got very good fiber
optics. Frontier is now in business in Polk, Pinellas, Hillsboro and
Sarasota counties.

The Florida
Orange Crop

GREENING of the
fruit in the Florida groves has taken a terrible toll. It is projected
that the orange crop will be down 26% for the 2016 - 2017 season.
That's down 81.5 million boxes of fruit.

Not only Florida is having trouble with their fruit but so is Brazil.
Brazil sells their fruit to South America and Europe while Florida
covers the United States. The Brazilian crop is down 14%.

What does all this mean to we, the consumer? Higher prices at the
grocery store - as much as 30 cents a gallon for orange juice.

One would think these higher prices should help the grower maintain
his groves but this increase is not enough to compensate for the cost
of fighting greening and this also means fewer consumers will purchase
juice due to the higher prices so there is less money to the grower.
The food processor Florida Natural in Lake Wales is also in a bind as
they claim that all of their juice is Florida juice and the crop
shortage will effect their output.

All in all, folks, the higher prices for orange juice may not be
enough to make up for the increased costs in the groves. Are we
nearing the end of the Florida orange juice market due to greening or
will our scientists and researchers come through with a remarkable
cure for this deadly disease?

Posted Aug 8, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Lakeland Center Lineup for Broadway and
Entertainment Series

The Lakeland Center has announced its lineup of shows
for the 2016 - 2017 year. And this year there is free parking if you
purchase one or the other or both of the series.
The Broadway Series Includes:
Fame
42nd Street
Let It Be
Pippin
Annie

All of this for $235 or you may customize your pass to include three
shows and still receive savings. Call 863 834 8111 Mon. - Fri. 9:30 -
5:30 to reserve your tickets.
The Entertainment Series is $165 pre person and will include:
Marilyn MCCoo and Billy Davis Jr.
The Original Stars of American Bandstand in AB
Beanies
The Ten Tenors
Rick Thomas

See above info for reservations.

I have seen the Ten Tenors perform before and they are outstanding.

Posted July 29, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Housing Construction

Winter Haven's housing construction is
slowing down but it's not due to the builders not wanting to build.
The problem resides in the fact that there is not enough cleared land
with utilities available in order to build. It appears that someone
has dropped the ball.

Standard Sand and Silica

Well, there's a name that is not familiar to us but
it will become a household word as they own 4100 acres of land near
Posner Park at I4 and rte 27. Because the land is near Orlando it is
attractive to developers of resorts, industry and medical facilities
and now is the time to begin developing this prime property.

Some ideas for the acreage are the building of a medical and research
facility similar to Lake Nona Science and Technology near Orlando, a
theme park, or a sports facility. This land is being looked at by
industry, residential and commercial developers and no one idea has
come forth as of yet.

The reason that the land is being developed now is that banks have
become more reasonable after the last recession. They want to make
more money so are willing to listen to the investors. However, the
investors need to have sound ideas and collateral to back their
dreams.

This land is the most sought after in Polk County and is presently
going to see the development by Standard Sand of several hundred
single family homes on 129 acres of Ernie Caldwell Boulevard and
Pinetree Trail. Townhouses are going to be built on land sold by
Posner Park developers to European investors. This will be called
Posner Estates. The 176 town house development will also begin this
year.

The past recession is done and builders and banks are more willing to
take risks. My only thought is, I wonder what will happen to route 27
with all the extra traffic? Will this be an extra push to build the
Toll Road from Home Depot on Rte 27 to I4? Life is getting exciting in
Polk County!

Posted July 16, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Big Tom's Diner

Big Tom's Diner is located at 1151 Havendale Blvd.,
Winter Haven and is Greek owned and operated by Sophia and Many
Frangoulis. Many's family has long been in the restaurant business as
Many's father once owned and ran Tom's Steak and Seafood located on
6th St. SE where Hog Heaven now stands.

The menu has both Greek and southern cooking items at a great price.
Because of this, you could find yourself waiting in line during prime
dining hours.

No Change for Alcohol in Polk County

At their last meeting the Polk County commissioners
voted down the proposal to allow alcohol sales on Sunday. Many people
spoke against the proposal and that was the deciding factor. You may
still purchase beer and wine on Sunday at noon but no bottled liquor
until Monday.

The supporter for the amendment, Tim Lauzon, stated that he will try
again for the changes. It's just not fair to the retailers near
Lakeland not to be able to sell all alcohol on Sunday.

Posted July 2, 2016

Sue's Browser Blog This Week

Eagle Ridge Mall Gets an Addition

Eagle Ridge Mall okayed Mike Campbell and Sal Virzi
to open a Steak and Shake in the Food Court of the Eagle Ridge Mall.
This will be the partners second location. The first location is on
Cypress Gardens Blvd.

The Steak and Shake will have a limited menu consisting mostly of
burgers, fries, shakes and a few salads. Construction begins in July
with a Grand Opening in October.

Mike and Sal plan on opening more Steak and Shakes. One is to be
located at 17 and I4 and another in Sebring.

Opening a Steak and Shake at a mall is very unusual. Most restaurants
are drive ups and are very successful. This will be a first for a
Florida Steak and Shake.

Calling All History Buffs......

The Lake Wales Depot Museum has reopened thanks to
the hard work of Monica Drake Pierce. This museum tells the story of
Lake Wales settling and development as well as the history of the
United States and it's FREE.

While restructuring and reorganizing, the museum has been closed for
the past year. Pierce is now planning on including three homes in Lake
Wales as part of a history tour.

Keep an eye out for a walking tour of downtown historical Lake Wales.

Posted Mar 7, 2016

Let's Talk Trash

Marty Drew has put out a
survey on "To Recycle Or Not" and requesting your input and return of the
forms to the office by March 17th.

The presentation that Marty
did at the town Hall meeting is being replayed at 7:00 PM on Tuesday night
on Channel 95 for anyone who wants to watch the presentation. You can also
click below and view the presentation (minus Marty) as well.